US Bucket List

This year, I would love to explore new areas of the United States. There are so many fantastic destinations in my own country, it makes for quite a long list of need-to-visit places. I know I’ve said it before, but I think it’s worth noting again: every destination has it’s merits, and you don’t need to travel far to find a worth-while vacation. This also speaks to my need to be on a tighter travel budget this year, as traveling within the United States tends to be a bit cheaper than internationally. While this list could go on and on, here are the five destinations that top my US Bucket List:

Grand Haven, Michigan: I love Michigan. Ever since we visited Grand Rapids, I’ve been looking into other Michigan cities to explore. Grand Haven seems to fit the bill perfectly with its delicious looking restaurants, antique shops, and not to mention its beaches and lighthouses. We can sail on Lake Michigan, bike along the boardwalks and relax in the evening at one of the many breweries in town. It’s the perfect weekend getaway.
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Adirondacks, New York: The Adirondacks is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the United States. I would love to rent a cabin in the wilderness there and hike, kayak and browse through the local artist galleries. I would also love to take the Amtrak train from New York City to cross “take an Amtrak trip” of my list of to-dos for the year. Overall, this destination seems like an excellent place to de-stress and enjoy the surroundings.
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Albuquerque, New Mexico: Hot air balloon rides over the desert! What else do I need to say? That has always been on my bucket list, and I would love to travel to New Mexico to experience it. In addition to that, Albuquerque has hiking, rock climbing, rafting, and tons of other outdoor activities. Not to mention the numerous wineries, breweries and wide variety of restaurants to enjoy. It would be the perfect long weekend to get into nature and away from the city.
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Charleston, South Carolina: What’s not to love about a picturesque, Southern city with history to spare?? Charleston has been on my list so long that I need to visit soon if only for the satisfaction of checking it off. I want to tour the old houses, enjoy the coast, and eat so much seafood. Charleston has so much to offer, and I would love to explore every little bit of it.
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Olympic National Park, Washington: There is so much beauty to see in and around Olympic National Park, this trip would need to be at least a week or so long. The rain forests within the park alone, are worthy of their own trip. But then there’s Crescent Lake, numerous beaches and waterfalls… it’s such a gorgeous destination. I would love to fly into Seattle and drive to Olympic National Park, stopping at all of the parks and landmarks.